Police renew River Severn Warning
Police have renewed advice to people enjoying a night out in Shrewsbury following the death of a young man in the River Severn.
They want people to show a greater awareness of the dangers posed by the river, especially when heavily under the influence of drink.
Chief Inspector Martin Whitelegg has re-issued the warning after the body of 27-year-old Mark Hodnett was recovered from the Severn on Thursday. Mr Hodnett went missing in the early hours after a night out in the town.
Chief Inspector Whitelegg said: "This tragedy highlights yet again the need for everyone to be aware that the River Severn is extremely dangerous.
"The fact is that Shrewsbury town centre, with its pubs and clubs, is enclosed by the river and virtually everyone making their way home after a night out has to either cross it or pass close by.
"During the past six or seven years, there have been at least 24 deaths in the River Severn through Shropshire, the majority in the Shrewsbury area. Furthermore, nine or ten of these were people heavily intoxicated and walking home alone.
"There have been many more incidents where people the worse for drink have been rescued from the water. And during the same period, the police have attended more than 100 incidents involving people at risk in, or near, the river in Shrewsbury."
He said the circumstances of Mr Hodnett's death were still being investigated but the tragedy served as a reminder to everyone to be wary of the river when out and about in the town.
"I am concerned that many people do not fully appreciate the potential dangers, especially when their judgement is impaired by alcohol. I am renewing our warning to help increase public awareness of this safety issue."
Chief Inspector Whitelegg said Shropshire Council has previously carried out safety improvements along the river banks and a number of initiatives have also been introduced or are under consideration to help safeguard vulnerable people.
But he added: "The fact remains people will inevitably come into close proximity to the water while making their way home and a degree of personal responsibility has to be taken.
"We strongly advise that wherever possible, people who have been drinking heavily should not be walking home alone. Furthermore, it makes sense not to drink to such excess that normal senses are seriously impaired. At such times, people think they are invincible whereas in fact, they are at their most vulnerable. If it's been a good night out, then either walk home with friends or catch a taxi."
